- V
Should someone get punished for their past, even if they reformed?
My husband Sam, an immigrant who fled his country with his family at the age of 18 months, has spent his entire life jumping through obstacles. Growing up in a 2-bedroom apartment shared amongst his parents, four siblings, and himself, to joining a gang and spending his teenage years and early adulthood in prison. He did what many couldn't... change. From the late 90s, having little to nothing in his name, to being married to a mother of 2, with whom he co-owns a local restaurant in 2025.
I bring this story up because in October 2025, Sam got detained and deported last month (March 2026). I struggle to write this and ask for help because I want to be strong for my family, friends, community, and for Sam. But I can only hold it together for so long. Sam was not just the charismatic and logistical side of the business, but was also my support in life. From the first encounter, you could tell he was a kind soul, even after all he's gone through. I first met him because I was struggling, and without even knowing me or the context, he offered to help. Learning how to cook, working long hours for free, and helping out in any possible way, while I tended to my mother, who was sick at the time. That's just the type of person he is.
Now Sam stands on foreign soil with little to nothing in his name once more. That is why I write this, to help Sam start a new life where he once again isn't alone.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for reading our story, for caring about our family, and for helping us hold onto hope.
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Sunee Thai & Lao
1400 SE Stark St
Portland, OR
(503)232-3957
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